|Boulder Kloof, Magaliesberg

Brief summary of venue

An offshoot kloof that branches off from Lower Tonquani, Boulder Kloof is a typical Magaliesberg kloof characterised by steep cliffs, and as its name suggests, massive, fallen boulders - making for striking scenery. Climbs are generally of a high standard on good quality, steep rock but tend to be short.

The walk in to the top of Boulder Kloof is over relatively easy terrain, and takes between 40 minutes to an hour. Navigation can be difficult for first timers as the path isn’t well defined. The walk down Boulder Kloof to Lower Tonquani/ Cedarberg Kloof is quite steep with big boulders, and takes about 20 minutes.

Accommodation

Camping is available at the top end of Boulder Kloof (no facilities available) otherwise Mountain Sanctuary Park has camping and chalets, as well as ablution facilities and a small shop selling cold drinks and ice-cream.

Availability of water for drinking

A large part of the kloof is dry with no running water; however, water is always available lower down the kloof near the Tonquani junction.

Climbing route guide

The MCSA has published a guide, Rock Climbing Routes in the Tonquani Complex’, which includes Boulder Kloof. Get the guide on our website here, under the "Routes" option.

Climbing information

Over 60 star graded trad climbs of various grades from 8 to 27. Most climbs are a single pitch on good rock. Descents are either by abseiling off a tree or walk offs. The kloof is shady.

Child friendly

Yes.

Swimming

There’s no swimming available in Boulder Kloof itself, but there are plenty of pools lower down the kloof and in Tonquani. There’s also a large pool at the bottom end of Lower Tonquani that you pass walking in and out which is perfect for a cooling dip.

Camp fires

No.

Other attractions

A wide variety of birds, animals and plants; and fantastic opportunities for photographers and artists.

Dangers

The general area has had muggings, so be alert.

Contacts

Entry through Calabash: Contact MCSA Jhb Section for permits and paying parking for Calabash; Entry through Mountain Sanctuary Park: Their parking and access fees apply, and you still need permits from the MCSA . See their website: www.mountain-sanctuary.co.za. Contact email for MCSA JHB: admin@jhb.mcsa.org.za

To all Mountain club members in Gauteng - please note that due to some attempted access to our properties during lockdown we would like to reiterate that access is suspended until relevant lockdown regulations deem it legal. Currently, we suspect that this will only be in level 2 or 1 as both inter-provincial travels is required (Magaliesberg is largely in the North-West) and, more critically, hiking and climbing are not considered essential activities.